was proposed by the Speaker of the Five Nations the first day that I should write to my Great Master the King of England &c concerning the warr that is between the Five Nations and the French & Indians of Canida and that I should gett an answer from the Great King to you the brethren It

next spring. Brethren

you its utterly impossible in so short a time to send over to my Great Master and to receive an answer for reasons which I shall now give you. The way over the great sea is long, the danger and hazards are many, and in the winter season I must assure

many storms and contrary winds. Brethren, I do promise you to use all the speedyest means with the first opportunity to write to the Great

King and to gett you an answer which I am sure will be to yo r content and satisfaction and so soon as it comes I shall communicate it to you

Brethren.

In the

mean time I have appointed Maj r Schuyler M r Dellius Major Wessels and the Mayor

of the Citty of Albany, to receive yo r propositions upon any occasions that may happen in my absence.

Bretheren

home well to yo own castles and that you may look out and be careyou can never be too watchfull. I now take my leave of you and give each full not to be surprized of you a kegg of rumm for a dram to comfort you in the way home, and a coat to keep you warm I shall see you again (God willing) next summer or sooner if yo affaires call, if it in the winter. please God to continue my health. I do heartily wish you